IS Applications Research Articles

Using a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Absorption Model to Establish Dissolution Bioequivalence Safe Space for Oseltamivir in Adult and Pediatric Populations.

Bioequivalence (BE) studies support the approval and clinical use of both new drug and generic drug products. Virtual BE studies have been conducted using physiologically based pharmacokinetic absorption models (PBPK AMs) to aid the evaluations of generic drug products. The aim of the current study is to determine the dissolution boundary for maintaining BE between the test and reference oseltamivir phosphate (OP) drug products using the PBPK AM-based virtual BE studies in adults and pediatrics. The adult PBPK AM for OP and its metabolite oseltamivir carboxylate (OC) are developed and verified/validated using intravenous and oral data from multiple generic OP products. The pediatric PBPK AM is extrapolated from the adult PBPK AM. The virtual BE analysis is conducted using simulated PK profiles from the reference products and the generic products with theoretical dissolution profiles as inputs. Results indicate that the generic products with 10% slower dissolution profile than the pivotal reference bio-batch could still maintain BE to the reference in adults. In contrast, a stringent trend of dissolution boundary is observed for pediatrics (6% slower for adolescents, 4% slower for 0-2-month neonates) to maintain BE. This study addresses the important applications of PBPK AM in evaluating BE in different age populations, mitigating risk of formulation/batch changes, and providing a quantitative basis for setting clinically relevant dissolution specifications for OP and OC in both adults and pediatrics.

Ameliorative and Synergic Effects of Derma-H, a New Herbal Formula, on Allergic Contact Dermatitis.

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is characterized by itching, skin inflammation, and allergic responses caused by release of immunoglobulin E and T helper 2-specific cytokines. The aim of this study is to investigate the ameliorative and synergic effects of herbal formula, Derma-H, containing Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. ex Bunge (AM) and Nepeta tenuifolia Benth (NT) which have been used as traditional medicinal herbs for the cure of dryness, edema, and pruritus. 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) was applied for ACD induction. AM, NT, and a mixture of AM and NT was topically applied to skin lesions for 11 days. Dermatitis score and number of scratches were significantly diminished in AM, NT, and AM + NT (Derma-H)-treated groups. Especially, Derma-H was more effective than single treatment of AM and NT on skin hyperplasia and mast cell infiltration. Also, NGF expression decreased by NT and a mixture of AM and NT. Additionally, series of TrkA, Raf-1, MEK, and ERK were significantly inhibited by topical AM and NT application. Those findings suggested AM and NT treatment has a synergic effect on DNCB-induced ACD in mice.

Using recycled material to produce gas-atomized metal powders for additive manufacturing processes

Additive manufacturing refers to the technologies used to directly produce parts from a three-dimensional model. Recycled AISI 316L and standard AISI 316L materials were used to produce powders via gas atomization process, and two additive manufacturing technologies, i.e., selective laser melting and laser metal deposition, were investigated. This study aims to determine the feasibility of using recycled material to produce powders for additive manufacturing. For each technology, the effect of process parameters on the solidification of the recycled powders was evaluated. Then, tensile tests were conducted on the specimens produced using the optimized process parameters. Specimens from both the technologies exhibited higher ultimate tensile strength values than standard AISI 316L. Recycled powders made from selective laser melting and laser metal deposition exhibited tensile strength values of 653 ± 1.79 MPa and 675 ± 2 MPa, respectively, whereas the standard powders exhibited a tensile strength of 594 ± 0.89 and 585 ± 3.1 MPa, respectively. We conclude that recycled AISI 316L can be used to produce powders for AM applications, resulting in good processability and high mechanical properties.

Antimicrobial Usage in Horses: The Use of Electronic Data, Data Curation, and First Results.

The usage of antimicrobial drugs (AMs) leads to an increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Although different antimicrobial usage (AMU) monitoring programs exist for livestock animals in Germany, there is no such system for horses. However, with the increasing usage of electronic practice management software (EPMS), it is possible to analyze electronic field data generated for routine purposes. The aim of this study was to generate AMU data for German horses with data from the Clinic for Horses (CfH), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (TiHo), and in addition to show that different processes of data curation are necessary to provide results, especially considering quantitative indices. In this investigation, the number of antimicrobial doses used and the amount and percentage of active ingredients applied were calculated. Data contained all drugs administered between the 1st of January and the 31st of December 2017. A total of 2,168 horses were presented for veterinary care to the CfH and 34,432 drug applications were documented for 1,773 horses. Of these, 6,489 (18.85%) AM applications were documented for 837 (47.21%) horses. In 2017, 162.33 kg of active ingredients were documented. The most commonly used antibiotic classes were sulfonamides (84.32 kg; 51.95 %), penicillins (30.11 kg; 18.55%) and nitroimidazoles (24.84 kg; 15.30%). In 2017, the proportion of Critically Important Antibiotics (CIA)—Highest Priority used was 0.15% (0.24 kg) and the proportion of CIA—High Priority used was 20.85% (33.85 kg). Of the total 9,402 entries of antimicrobial active ingredients, the three with the largest number used were sulfonamides [n = 2,798 (29.76%)], trimethoprim [n = 2,757 (29.76%)] and aminoglycosides [n = 1,381 (14.69%)]. Comparison between Administered Daily Dose (ADA) and Recommended Daily Dose of CfH (RDDCfH), showed that 3.26% of ADA were below RDDCfH, 3.18% exceeded RDDCfH and 93.55% were within the range around RDDCfH. This study shows that data generated by an EPMS can be evaluated once the method is set up and validated. The method can be transferred to evaluate data from the EPMS of other clinics or animal species, but the transferability depends on the quality of AMU documentation and close cooperation with respective veterinarians is essential.

3D printing applications for the treatment of cancer

PurposeAdditive manufacturing (AM) is an innovation in today's medical field. It helps create a patient-specific 3D model of bones, nerves, organs and blood vessel. Now, doctors and surgeons have successfully applied this technology to plan different types of treatments and also cancers. The purpose of this paper is to study the requirements and applications of AM for cancer treatment. MethodsToday AM is used for the application of regenerative medicine. It can help develop and improve in-vitro models in the tumour microenvironment. Thus, to identify its applications, related research papers on AM for cancer are studied. Results3D printing technology has a unique capability to manufacture tumour models. It helps to understand the status of the whole tumor. Here in this paper, we studied the capabilities of AM technologies for cancer treatment. This study discusses necessary process steps, followed by 3D printing and finally identified significant applications of these technologies for cancer treatment with a brief description. Conclusion3D printed tumor helps to provide faithful studies on metastasis. These models create a promising platform to construct biomimetic models. By accurate manufacturing of in vitro model, this technology seems to be the best tool to facilitate complex treatment, surgery and therapies. It shows great potential for the printing of organs. This technology is time-saving and avoids time-consuming processes. It has been analysed that AM helps in reducing the duration of treatment of a cancer patient. Researchers are focusing on reducing pain during therapies. They have also tested 3D printed tumor models for different drugs, to eliminate the risks. These models play a significant role in courses of treatments.

Designing Enterprise Architecture Planning Using the Zachman Framework

PT. Karya Sarana Sejati is one of the heavy equipment rental companies in Indonesia which is engaged in services, specifically road construction, this company also provides rental of heavy equipment and buying and selling heavy equipment spare parts. To be able to improve the company's business processes for the better, the company can implement SI / IT in its business processes. The application of IS / IT must be planned carefully so that it can help the company achieve its vision and mission. Enterprise Architecture Planning (EAP) is one method that can be used to do planning in helping to take advantage of the implementation of IS / IT. In this study, EAP will be linked to the Zachman Framework to complement its planning results. This research will produce a number of recommendations for the six application Truck maintenance, Company profile website, Bill payment, Payroll, Prerequisite order, dan Tracking. of EAP results that can be implemented and help run the business processes found in the company.

3D printing applications towards the required challenge of stem cells printing

BackgroundAdditive Manufacturing (AM) technologies are innovative and are being applied successfully in the medical field as they provide the extensive capability of customisation. Here in this study, we have identified research papers on AM applications, specifically 3D printing in stem cells. Aim of workThis study provides information to health professionals and helps them to solve different medical challenges in an effective manner which is not possible with the traditional method of stem cells fabrication. Materials and methodsUndertook the study through good research papers published on Stem cells on the applications of 3D printing which are also helpful to sort out different medical problems and their solution. ResultThis paper studies 3D printing technology in the context of stem cells fabrications, brief about the stem cells, its functions and its superior capabilities in the medical field. Paper identified thirteen significant stem cells applications achievable through the practical applications of 3D printing. Finally, the paper provides a brief discussion on the future potential of this technology for the printing of stem cells. Conclusions3D printed stem cells seem to have extensive applications in regenerative medicine for the treatment of various diseases. These cells help seed decellularisation of complete organs for regenerative medicine. This technology also applies to the reconstruction of heart valves and has excellent potential in valvular disease. These cells have higher capabilities to fulfil different medical requirements, but it is challenging to steer its growth as per the need of human kind. Scientists created 3D printed stem cells structure which can grow, and they have performed tissue regeneration experiments on them. Traditionally researchers produce 2D sheets of cells. Now, this technology introduces the fabrications in 3D with stem cells which can also be developed in the human body. 3D printing approach creates uniform building blocks of stem cells with precise and controlled growth and seems helpful to the human body for consistent tissue growth. Nevertheless, this is just a starting, and there is a long way to go for commercial printing of human body parts.

Perencanaan Strategis Sistem Informasi Pada Universitas XYZ Menggunakan Metode Ward and Peppard

The implementation of Information Systems (SI) and Information Technology (IT) has the aim that the performance of the University is fully effective and efficient. Information System Strategic Planning carried out by the implementation of SI and IT can provide results that are appropriate and meet the targets of XYZ University, a University that requires the effective application of IS / IT in order to improve efficiency and Human Resources that produce at XYZ University in full. By carrying out Information Systems Strategic Planning using Ward and Peppard methods can provide the results of an effective Strategic Information System Planning (ISSP) to assist the performance process at XYZ University

Re-design Business Process at Forwading Company Based on EAP

To be able to become a service company that is superior to other service companies, it requires assistance from the application of IS / IT in its business processes. Both main activities and supporting activities. Enterprise Architecture Planning or EAP helps make planning for the implementation of IS / IT more mature and better, so that the implementation of IS / IT in the company's business processes can run and work in accordance with the company's vision and mission. Zachman Framework is one method that can be used to help do EAP. The Zachman Framework will map the entire system in the company based on 6 different viewpoints along with 5W + 1H. Therefore, this research is expected to be able to provide input to companies that are the object of research to implement IS / IT in accordance with business processes and vision and mission. Later the results of this study will be in the form of proposals for new business processes both supporting activities and the main activities of companies that use the application of IS / IT in them.

Eco-friendly management of Meloidogyne incognita in Okra through AM fungus (Glomus fasciculatum) and neem oil cake

Neem oil cake @ 100 g and 200 g/m², AM fungus (Glomus fasciculatum) @ 5 g and 10 g/m² were applied as single and in combinations. Carbofuran @ 0.3 g a.i./m² was applied as standard chemical check. All the treatments significantly increased the okra growth parameters and reduced root knot nematode population and other infection parameters over check. It was also found that there was a significant rise in the population of AM fungus, its colonization in roots as well as phosphorus content in plants in treatment where AM fungus was inoculated alone and in combination with neem oil cake. Among various treatments, application of AM fungus @ 10 g/m² with neem cake @ 200 g/m² performing better than others, contributing significantly increase in plant growth parameters, phosphorus content with corresponding decrease in root knot nematode infection as compared to inoculated untreated check followed by application of AM fungus @ 10 g/m² with neem cake @ 100 g/m², which were statistically at par. In view of cost effective and low cost management option, application of AM fungus @ 10 g/m² with neem cake @ 100 g/m² was considered the most promising management option against root knot nematode (M. incognita) affecting okra.

Application of organic materials to improve the growth and yield of maize in an acid soil of Southeast Sulawesi

The experiment was conducted consisting of three different sources of organic materials (plant bokashi: PB; soaked outershell coconut: SOC; and arbuscular mycorhiza: AM) using four treatments and four rates of organic materials including control. Maize was grown in mixed soil-organic materials in the polybags and observed at 14, 28, 42 and 72 days after planting (DAP). The results showed that the application of PB, AM and SOC significantly increased growth and yield of maize. Increasing the effects depend on the type of source and rate of organic material additions. PB had the greater effects than AM and SOC. The use of PB at 150 g polybag1 improved 53% plant height, 131% plant diameter and 92% leaf number at 14 DAP; and increased 47% cob length, 43% cob diameter and 78% of cob weight at 72 DAP. The application of organic materials improved organic C, total N, P- and K-availables. This experiment demonstrated that PB produced higher nutrients than AM and SOC. Thus, PB which originated from bokashi of 1:1 weight ratio of leaves of ‘gamal’ (Gliricidia sepium) and ‘komba-komba’ (Eupatorium odoratum) could be used as organic fertilizer for growth and yield of maize in an acid soil.

Chemical modification of gold surface via UV-generated aryl radicals derived 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)iodonium salt

In recent years, iodonium salts emerged as a unique novel class of compounds for surface modification by electrografting. Herein, we demonstrated that 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)iodonium salt (IS-(CF3)2) can be applied for the modification of surfaces via generation of aryl radicals through activation by UV light, without the addition of any photoinitiators. The thickness of the organic layer was found to be close to the size of an organic radical. The as-prepared structures were characterized by XPS, wettability, Raman spectroscopy and AFM measurements. The formation of close to monomolecular layer on the surface was proved by three independent methods (AFM, XPS, and ellipsometry). UV-generated aryl radicals can also be used for simple one-step surface patterning with organic functional groups. In our contribution, we developed a convenient and easy-to-handle approach for the grafting of modified patterns. The application of IS-(CF3)2 allows controlling the distribution of surface-modified area via the application of the lithographic mask. The proposed strategy offers advantages such as strong covalent bonding of aryl radical, easiness of experimental procedure in combination with the possibility to control surface architecture.

Computer-aided methods for single-stage fibrous dysplasia excision and reconstruction in the zygomatico-orbital complex

Purpose Computer-aided design and additive manufacture (CAD/AM) technologies are sufficiently refined and meet the necessary regulatory requirements for routine incorporation into the medical field, with long-standing application in surgeries of the maxillofacial and craniofacial regions. They have resulted in better medical care for patients and faster, more accurate procedures. Despite ever-growing evidence about the advantages of computer-aided planning, CAD and AM in surgery, detailed reporting on critical design decisions that enable methodological replication and the development and establishment of guidelines to ensure safety are limited. This paper aims to present a novel application of CAD and AM to a single-stage resection and reconstruction of fibrous dysplasia in the zygoma and orbit. Design/methodology/approach It is reported in sufficient fidelity to permit methods replication and design guideline developments in future cases, wherever they occur in the world. The collaborative approach included engineers, designers, surgeons and prosthetists to design patient-specific cutting guides and a custom implant. An iterative design process was used, until the desired shape and function were achieved, for both of the devices. The surgery followed the CAD plan precisely and without problems. Immediate post-operative subjective clinical judgements were of an excellent result. Findings At 19 months post-op, a CT scan was undertaken to verify the clinical and technical outcomes. Dimensional analysis showed maximum deviation of 4.73 mm from the plan to the result, while CAD-Inspection showed that the deviations ranged between −0.1 and −0.8 mm and that the majority of deviations were located around −0.3 mm. Originality/value Improvements are suggested and conclusions drawn regarding the design decisions considered critical to a successful outcome for this type of procedure in the future.

Effect of Biofertilizers and Phosphorus Levels on Soil Fertility, Yield and Nodulation in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

The field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of biofertilizers and phosphorus (P) levels on soil fertility, yield and nodulation in chickpea at Instructional Farm of Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, India during rabi season 2015–16. The nine treatments comprised of biofertilizers (0, PSB and AM) and three P levels (0, 40 and 60 kg P2O5 ha−1) were tested in randomized block design replicated as thrice. The experimental soil having silty loam in texture, pH (1: 2.5) 8.24, EC 0.34 dS m−1, organic carbon 3.5 g kg−1, available nitrogen (N) 180, P 18.2 and potassium (K) 226 kg ha−1. The plant spacing was row to row 30 cm and plant to plant 10 cm. The variety PG-186 was taken as a test crop. The yield, dry matter accumulation, number, fresh and dry weight of nodule and availability of N, P and K were increased with the increasing levels of P and with inoculation of biofertilizers. The maximum was received with the application of 60 kg P2O5 ha−1 followed by 40 kg P2O5 ha−1. Among the application of biofertilizers (PSB and AM), the maximum were recorded with the application of AM which was statistically at par with PSB and significantly superior over the without inoculation.

Additive manufacturing applications in cardiology: A review.

BackgroundAdditive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a serious planning, strategy, and education tool in cardiovascular medicine. This review describes and illustrates the application, development and associated limitation of additive manufacturing in the field of cardiology by studying research papers on AM in medicine/cardiology.MethodsRelevant research papers till August 2018 were identified through Scopus and examined for strength, benefits, limitation, contribution and future potential of AM. With the help of the existing literature & bibliometric analysis, different applications of AM in cardiology are investigated.ResultsAM creates an accurate three-dimensional anatomical model to explain, understand and prepare for complex medical procedures. A prior study of patient’s 3D heart model can help doctors understand the anatomy of the individual patient, which may also be used create training modules for institutions and surgeons for medical training.ConclusionAM has the potential to be of immense help to the cardiologists and cardiac surgeons for intervention and surgical planning, monitoring and analysis. Additive manufacturing creates a 3D model of the heart of a specific patient in lesser time and cost. This technology is used to create and analyse 3D model before starting actual surgery on the patient. It can improve the treatment outcomes for patients, besides saving their lives. Paper summarised additive manufacturing applications particularly in the area of cardiology, especially manufacturing of a patient-specific artificial heart or its component. Model printed by this technology reduces risk, improves the quality of diagnosis and preoperative planning and also enhanced team communication. In cardiology, patient data of heart varies from patient to patient, so AM technologies efficiently produce 3D models, through converting the predesigned virtual model into a tangible object. Companies explore additive manufacturing for commercial medical applications.

Investigation of LBM-processed bimodal powder mixtures of the nickel base alloy HX and WC–Co

Laser beam melting (LBM) is an additive manufacturing technology (AM), which enables the production of individual, complex metal parts. The development of AM-specific materials is a necessary step to exploit the full technological potential and should be a useful contribution for the ongoing process of implementing, establishing, and realizing AM processes in industrial fields of application. Theoretically, the LBM process offers the opportunity to process any weldable metal powder feedstock. Since LBM parameters affect the solidification conditions directly, this process is predestinated for future material developments. In the present paper, first research results to process the conventional LBM powder (Hastelloy X; HX) that was blended with a fine WC–Co powder are presented. Due to its high temperature and corrosion resistance, HX is widely used in industrial AM applications. WC–Co was added to improve the wear and mechanical properties. In this study, the blended, bimodal powder feedstock was analyzed, and the influence of the key process parameters on the porosity, morphology, and grain structure was investigated. The aim was to obtain the first basic information concerning the behavior of such powder blends during LBM processing and the resulting material properties. In summary, processing powder blends is possible. Since an increased porosity was determined for a high WC–Co content, the process parameters need to be further improved. In addition, it was determined that the energy input during the powder melting process directly affects the distribution of WC–Co particles within the HX matrix. High-energy inputs lead to a degradation of the WC particles. Low-energy inputs foster a consistent embedding of WC–Co particles within the HX matrix.

Mycorrhizal inoculations and silicon fortifications improve rhizobial symbiosis, antioxidant defense, trehalose turnover in pigeon pea genotypes under cadmium and zinc stress

Cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential and highly toxic element for plant growth while zinc (Zn) becomes toxic at elevated levels. Presence of these heavy metals (HMs) in soils has negative impact on rhizobial symbiosis in legumes leading to reduced agricultural productivity. Role of silicon (Si) amendment and Rhizophagus irregularis in mitigating HM stress has gained importance in recent years. Present study evaluated the individual and cumulative effects of Si and/or AM on Cd (25, 50 mg/kg) or Zn (600, 1000 mg/kg) induced responses in terms of nitrogen fixing efficiency, trehalose biosynthesis, antioxidant defense and phytochelatin (PC) synthesis in pigeon pea genotypes (Tolerant-Pusa 2002, Sensitive-Pusa 991). Results indicated that although mycorrhizal colonization (MC) declined with increase in metal concentration in both genotypes, Pusa 2002 was able to form significant colonization even under stress. Cadmium and zinc stress negatively affected plant biomass and rhizobial symbiosis, with Cd more toxic than Zn. The decline in nodulation potential under both HMs was much more significant in Pusa 991 than Pusa 2002 which could be correlated with proportionately reduced MC, nutrient uptake and ultimate N accumulation. Individual application of AM was much more effective in improving nitrogen fixing efficiency by increasing trehalose biosynthesis, PC production and strengthening antioxidant defense than Si. Restoration of rhizobial symbiosis under combined applications of Si and AM could be correlated with enhanced Si uptake through mycorrhization. Thus, study suggested use of AM as a tool in enhancing benefits of Si nutrition in terms of restoration of nodule senescence and N-fixing competence in pigeon pea under HMs stress.

The Application of AMS for Deciphering Structural and Sedimentary Evolution of the Orava Basin (Slovakia)

The Application of AMS for Deciphering Structural and Sedimentary Evolution of the Orava Basin (Slovakia)

Industrial 3D printing in Italy

This paper aims at providing a comprehensive outlook on the economic and organisational rationale of 3D printing technologies and their implications for innovation in the Italian manufacturing industry. Despite its limited impact on the industrial world, the idea of printing actual 3D objects has clearly captured the popular imagination; 3D printing is often linked to 'big changes' or to sometimes indefinite industrial revolutions in progress because it is considered that 3D printing will eventually enable 'mass customisation'. None of the most significant actual applications of AM in Italian manufacturing, however, suggests that any real 'manufacturing revolution' has started or can be foreseen in the near future for consumer goods. For these AM is neither competitive today, nor can it be made so in the future, unless some sort of technological quantum leap occurs.

Environmental Dimensions of Additive Manufacturing: Mapping Application Domains and Their Environmental Implications

SummaryAdditive manufacturing (AM) proposes a novel paradigm for engineering design and manufacturing, which has profound economic, environmental, and security implications. The design freedom offered by this category of manufacturing processes and its ability to locally print almost each designable object will have important repercussions across society. While AM applications are progressing from rapid prototyping to the production of end‐use products, the environmental dimensions and related impacts of these evolving manufacturing processes have yet to be extensively examined. Only limited quantitative data are available on how AM manufactured products compare to conventionally manufactured ones in terms of energy and material consumption, transportation costs, pollution and waste, health and safety issues, as well as other environmental impacts over their full lifetime. Reported research indicates that the specific energy of current AM systems is 1 to 2 orders of magnitude higher compared to that of conventional manufacturing processes. However, only part of the AM process taxonomy is yet documented in terms of its environmental performance, and most life cycle inventory (LCI) efforts mainly focus on energy consumption. From an environmental perspective, AM manufactured parts can be beneficial for very small batches, or in cases where AM‐based redesigns offer substantial functional advantages during the product use phase (e.g., lightweight part designs and part remanufacturing). Important pending research questions include the LCI of AM feedstock production, supply‐chain consequences, and health and safety issues relating to AM.